Hottest off Broadway show returns to Central Florida
The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents the return of “Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man,” April 27-30 in the Jaeb Theater. In this hilarious three-character comedy based on the best-selling book of the same title, audiences are welcomed into a fun-filled world of foolproof moves and insider advice that could only be culled from that most insightful of individuals: the gay man.
“Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man,” the book, written by Dan Anderson and Maggie Berman and published in 1997, championed the straight girl/gay guy friendship in mainstream pop culture and instantly became a national best-seller. Now a cult classic, the book has also been published in Germany, Japan, Taiwan, Brazil, the Netherlands, Australia, England and France.
The play is set at a local university auditorium where the English department holds its monthly “meet the authors” event. Robyn is the shy and studious moderator of the event, and this month’s featured author is Dan Anderson of “Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man.” With the help of a hunky stage assistant named Stefan, Dan aims to turn the event upside down with a highly theatrical, audience interactive sex tip seminar. Will Stefan’s muscles be used for more than moving heavy scenery? Will the power of Dan’s tips prove too titillating for even Robyn to resist?
It was a pleasure to sit down with Jacklyn Collier (who plays Robyn) and Sean Hankinson (who plays Dan) for this exclusive Hotspots interview:
Were you a ham as a kid?
J – I started acting when I was six, after going into a local talent show. I sang Elvis, Patsy Kline and some Shakespeare.
S- I told my mom when I was a kid I wanted to be an actor. She was not a stage mom, and said you need to figure this out. At the age of six I called a manager, and the rest is history.
At what age did you start acting professionally?
J – I started acting professionally the summer before college.
S- I started working professionally at 14.
How did you get cast in “Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man”?
J- I got the audition through my agent. I had wanted to see the show for quite a while; it had been on my bucket list. When I got cast, I felt amazing.
S- I got cast because of Jacklyn as we have been friends for nine years. She got me the audition and I got the part.
What has been your favorite part, other than this one, and why?
J – I wrote and produced a web series with my writing Partner called “This is My Roommate.” It was my favorite part to play because we created the characters, acted in it, was able to cast friends, produced and directed it
S- I did a contract for “Life in the Dream House,” a TV show form Mattel, and I did the voice of Ken for five years. It was a dream role!
What should the Central Florida audiences expect from “Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man”?
S – You are going to walk away with actual knowledge as it’s based on a real book. It actually helps all people and we will help to unlock the true potential of everyone in the bedroom and in life.
J -People leave a lot freer in their sexuality and the freedom to express themselves as they want to. Basically we want everyone to own their sexuality. It’s very empowering.
Has your sex life gotten better since starring in the show?
S- Yes, I am a curious person naturally, so when someone gives me a tip I need to try it out. I am willing to do anything twice. I have definitely found new ways to enjoy my sexual experiences.
J – I think Sean and I have very satisfied partners. The actual tips I have tried have been well received.
This event contains adult language and content. Regularly priced tickets are $30-40 and may be purchased by calling 813.229.STAR (7827) or 800.955.1045 outside Tampa Bay. You can purchase tickets in person at the Straz Center Ticket Sales Office or online at Strazcenter.org.
For more information on “Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man,” visit the website at: SexTipsPlay.com.
